Veterans Day 2001
Message From the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

This Veterans Day is an especially solemn occasion as we pay tribute to not
only those who served,
who fought, and who died for this great Nation in wars past, but also to the
new veterans of the
ongoing war against terrorism.

Soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen from both the active
and reserve
components all have a vital role defending the homeland as well as rooting out
terrorists at home and
abroad. This first war of the 21st century is unlike any of the wars fought
in the 20th century, but our
goals in this conflict are consistent with what we have fought for throughout
our history. We seek to
defend America against all forms of threat and tyranny. And we will win -- decisively
-- so that future
generations may enjoy peace and prosperity without the fear of terrorist attacks
on American soil.

As we pursue victory, it is fitting to pause and reflect on the great sacrifices
made by our
predecessors. Today marks the 80th anniversary of the first interment of one
of our fallen comrades,
"an American soldier known but to God," in the Tomb of the Unknowns
at Arlington National
Cemetery. It remains our duty to ensure that his sacrifice and the sacrifice
of all Americans who have
offered up their lives in the cause of freedom and liberty, to include those
who perished on Sept. 11,
2001, were not given in vain.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff and I join our countrymen in paying homage to you,
our veterans, for all that
you have done and continue to do in the service of your country. You and those
who came before
you vanquished determined foes, liberated oppressed peoples, and secured our
cherished freedoms.
You have made a positive difference for America and the rest of the world. Our
young men and
women who serve today continue to build upon that just and honorable tradition.